Many communities are already experiencing flooding due to a wetter than usual spring and saturated soils

The Bureau of Meteorology has warned a succession of three rainfall systems will bring downpours across the east of the country this week with parts of NSW already being hit with heavy showers and thunderstorms. 

Rain is likely to lead to renewed river level rises across many already flooded rivers in southern Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and northern Tasmania with minor to major flooding likely, particularly across inland NSW.

A Severe Weather Warning for damaging winds is still current for parts of north-west Tasmania. Flood Watches are current for many river catchments in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania.

Kylie Macfarlane, COO Insurance Council of Australia, commented: ”The Insurance Council is keeping a close watch on this unfolding weather event and are urging residents to prepare and above all put their safety first. 

”Insurers are well prepared to respond to these events, but it is clear the community needs to be better protected from worsening extreme weather and that requires greater investment in mitigation and resilience.”

La Nina brings another wet Spring

From late Friday, the more intense system will bring widespread heavy rain over New South Wales, in particular the eastern half, including the western slope and ranges and the central and southern coast.

Renewed river rises and the possibility of flooding is expected with the rain. The Northern Rivers are not expected to be affected by river rises.

Numerous flood watches have been issued for both inland and central coastal regions of New South Wales, including major flooding for the following catchments:

  • Gwydir, Namoi, Macquarie, Lachlan, Belubula, Bogan
  • Wollombri Brook, Goulburn and Hunter rivers
  • Major flooding continues across Macquarie, Darling, Culgoa and Lachlan.
  • Many more catchments are listed for moderate and minor flooding.

Many communities are already experiencing flooding due to a wetter than usual spring and saturated soils.

The latest warning comes as Australia enters its third consecutive La Niña season, meaning much of the country can expect a rainy end to 2022.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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